Can I add some Dragonets? Is my pod population enough

[jessicaparker]

I know you need a strong population of copepods to have dragonets in your tank. My tank is about 4 months old and ive never noticed any copepods. I added some corals i bought from someone a week or 2 ago and he said his rock probably has lots of copepods. I changed my filter sock today and for the first time a bunch of insect looking things (i assume copepods) fell out. My question is do you think that is a strong enough sign to put in some dragonets? I also have a scooter blenny who eats shrimp, will he pose a problem for the dragonets?

 

[snorvich]

What sized tank? You already have one copepod eating fish (which is a dragonet not a blenny by the way)

 

[jessicaparker]

72 bowfront

 

[Lorenz725]

I am no expert by any means but in my opinion i would say no. A dragonet can eat a pod population in a 72 gal tank in just one day. That is why it is suggested to have a refugium so the population can always grow and be added to the tank through the pumps.That why there is a constant population of pods going into the main tank. Some people get lucky and can get there dragonet to eat frozen foods or even pellets. Trust me they are one of my favorite fish but i would not try it and my tank has been up for a year and i see tons of pods on my rocks and glass. Good luck and happy reefing!